OSWESTRY Town Council is to take ownership of a youth centre in the town in a move described as a "big win".

Councillors voted on Wednesday to accept the draft terms of the switch of ownership of The Centre, or Centre North West, in Oak Street, from Shropshire Council.

Under the new terms, Shropshire Council would become the tenant under Oswestry Town Council as the landlord, with the agreement also including the multi-use games area (MUGA) and the play park in Ash Lane.

A report from town clerk Arren Roberts asked councillors to approve the heads of terms and also have an understanding over costs and risks to the council as the work moves forward, which was accepted by members.

Former mayor Councillor Jay Moore – who is also a youth worker – welcomed the move, believing it is the first positive step for young people in the town for some time.

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He said: “This has been a long time coming for the council and to get to the point where we’re taking over is a big win for us and for young people.

“There has been a neglect of young people. It’s finally got to a point where we’re going to see a real benefit of it for young people.

“We knew it was going to be expensive coming in but I wholly support this and move forward with the acquisition.”

Cllr Moore added that this had been a long-term aim for him since he joined the council, leaving his youth work at The Centre to become a councillor and improve youth services.

Cllr Duncan Kerr also supported the move.

He said: “This a great day for Oswestry and it will be a great benefit for the town.”

The decision to adopt the head of terms was a unanimous one.

According to Mr Robert’s report, a budget for The Centre has not been put in place but explained what work may need to be done.

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It said: “The town council has not allocated a budget for the project but it is considered that the Service Improvement Reserve could be utilised to fund surveys, inspections and reports e.g. building reinstatement valuation for insurance purposes.

“As identified in the building condition survey, there are some works that need completing.

“These will need to be discussed with partners and agreement reached as to who pays for what.

“(We) will need to maintain responsibility for the roof.

“There will also be ongoing revenue implications for insurance cover and some ongoing maintenance (Ash Road Play Area).”